Health Tip: Seniors Need Exercise

How much should you do?

Please note: This article was published more than one year ago. The facts and conclusions presented may have since changed and may no longer be accurate. And "More information" links may no longer work. Questions about personal health should always be referred to a physician or other health care professional.

To stay healthy, the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that seniors exercise for at least 30 minutes almost every day, and include 20 minutes of strengthening exercises two days each week. Good, low-impact exercises for seniors include walking, biking and swimming.

It's important to stretch and warm up properly for a few minutes before exercising, says the AAFP. You should not exercise if you feel sick, or if you begin to feel lightheaded or have pain in the chest.